Pyrénées-Orientales

Prior to the Treaty of the Pyrénées in 1659, most of what is now Pyrénées-Orientales was part of the former Principality of Catalonia. It is the most southerly of the five departments that make up the Languedoc-Roussillon region. From the peak of Canigou to the Mediterranean and Vermillion coast, the scenery is as spectacular as it is diverse, with mountain and sea-based activities galore to enjoy. The pretty port of Collioure attracted artists such as Matisse and Picasso, while spa town Amélie-les-Bains is known for its thermal springs.

CAPITAL: PERPIGNAN - The last major city in France before the Spanish border, Perpignan was once Catalonia's second city after Barcelona and it continues to feel as much Spanish or Catalan as it does French, despite being transferred to France in 1659. The city today is a mix of wide boulevards and winding streets and is the setting for the lively Estivales festival at summer.

Access from UK

Climate

Average annual temperature: (Perpignan): 11.4ºC/ 20.1ºC

Average annual rainfall: 557.6mm

Average annual sunshine hours: 2,464.9

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Proximity to the sea and mountains

Highlights

Pyrénées-Orientales is home to five Plus Beaux Villages: Castelnou, Eus, Evol, Mosset and Villefranche-de-Conflent. The latter was fortified by the famous French military engineer Vauban, and is the departure point for the Little Yellow Train through the Pyrénées. The area is also home to the town of Céret, which is considered to be one of the birthplaces of Cubism; its Musée d'Art Moderne features a number of works by iconic 20th-century artists, including Picasso, Matisse and Chagall.